Meaning
Time is a valuable resource that should not be wasted.
Cultural Background
In Milan, the financial capital, this phrase is a way of life. Efficiency is highly prized, and being late is seen as a sign of unreliability. While understood, the phrase is often balanced with 'il piacere della conversazione' (the pleasure of conversation). People might say it, but they will still take time for a coffee. Using this phrase in a negotiation shows you are serious and results-oriented. It aligns with the 'pragmatic' side of Italian commerce. Italian universities can be bureaucratic. Students often use this phrase ironically when waiting in long lines for administrative tasks.
Use it in Business
It's the safest proverb to use in a professional Italian setting to sound motivated.
Don't use with 'Soldi'
While 'soldi' means money, 'Il tempo è soldi' sounds like a bad translation. Stick to 'denaro'.
Meaning
Time is a valuable resource that should not be wasted.
Use it in Business
It's the safest proverb to use in a professional Italian setting to sound motivated.
Don't use with 'Soldi'
While 'soldi' means money, 'Il tempo è soldi' sounds like a bad translation. Stick to 'denaro'.
The Irony Factor
In Southern Italy, saying this might be met with a smile and a slower pace—it's often used ironically.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the missing word.
Il tempo è _______.
While 'oro' is a variation, 'denaro' is the standard form of this specific proverb.
In which situation is it appropriate to say 'Il tempo è denaro'?
Choose the best context:
The phrase is about efficiency and productivity, making it suitable for business.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Select the right one:
Italian proverbs usually require the definite article 'il' for the subject 'tempo'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Perché corri così tanto?' B: 'Perché ho molto lavoro e...'
The speaker is explaining their hurry through the value of time.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIl tempo è _______.
While 'oro' is a variation, 'denaro' is the standard form of this specific proverb.
Choose the best context:
The phrase is about efficiency and productivity, making it suitable for business.
Select the right one:
Italian proverbs usually require the definite article 'il' for the subject 'tempo'.
A: 'Perché corri così tanto?' B: 'Perché ho molto lavoro e...'
The speaker is explaining their hurry through the value of time.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNot usually, but it can be if you say it to someone who is clearly trying their best or is in a state of distress.
Yes, it's a very common and slightly more 'precious' sounding variation.
In Italian, abstract nouns used as subjects almost always require the definite article.
Yes, often abbreviated or used with emojis like ⏳💰.
Related Phrases
Il tempo vola
similarTime flies
Chi ha tempo non aspetti tempo
builds onHe who has time should not wait for time
Il tempo è galantuomo
contrastTime is a gentleman
Perdere tempo
specialized formTo waste time
